As I walked into the cozy embrace of my kitchen one evening, the scent of sizzling onions and peppers enveloped me, instantly lifting my spirits. It had been one of those whirlwind days where fast food seemed like the only option. But then, my trusty crockpot came to the rescue! This Easy Slow Cooker Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak was the perfect answer, transforming simple, accessible ingredients into a meal that would impress even the pickiest eaters.
Imagine tender beef simmering away, soaking up the rich flavors from beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, all while the provolone cheese melts beautifully over the top. With minimal effort and just a few hours of slow cooking, you can recreate this iconic sandwich right in the comfort of your home. Say goodbye to greasy takeout and hello to a homemade feast that’s both delicious and stress-free—perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but flavor is non-negotiable. Let’s dive into this recipe that promises to serve up joy with every bite!
Why is Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak a must-try?
Ultimate Convenience: This recipe embraces effortless cooking, allowing busy individuals to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal prep time.
Flavor Explosion: Experience a blend of rich savory flavors from tender beef, zesty Worcestershire sauce, and melty provolone that’ll tantalize your taste buds.
Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist this warm, gooey sandwich, making it perfect for your next family dinner.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the cheesesteak in hoagie rolls, as lettuce wraps, or with a side of fries for a customizable meal.
Make Ahead Magic: Prep the ingredients in advance and let the crockpot do the heavy lifting, giving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
• Beef Chuck Roast – This well-marbled cut ensures a tender, juicy filling.
• Onion – Adds a hint of sweetness; shallots make a great alternative for a milder taste.
• Green Bell Peppers – Provides a crunchy texture; consider yellow or red peppers for added sweetness.
• Red Bell Pepper – Complements the green peppers; extra green peppers can be used instead.
For the Seasoning Mix
• Beef Broth – Enhances the flavor; choose low-sodium to control saltiness.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds a rich umami flavor; soy sauce works well as a substitute.
• Garlic Powder – Imparts robust taste; fresh minced garlic can be substituted (1/2 teaspoon equals 1 clove).
• Salt & Black Pepper – Adjust to personal taste for the perfect seasoning.
For Assembly
• Hoagie Rolls – Opt for fresh or crusty rolls to perfectly hold the filling and provide great texture.
• Provolone Cheese – A classic choice for cheesesteaks; swap for mozzarella or American cheese for variation.
How to Make Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak
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Layer Ingredients: Start by placing the sliced beef, onion, and both green and red bell peppers into the crockpot. Ensure an even layer for thorough cooking and flavor melding.
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Add Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring that the meat is well-coated with the seasonings.
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Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat for 6–8 hours. Your goal is for the beef to become fork-tender and ready to shred easily—allow the flavors to develop!
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Assemble Sandwiches: Once cooked, take your hoagie rolls and split them open. Layer generous portions of the beef mixture along with the sautéed onions and peppers on each roll, topping it off with slices of provolone cheese.
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Melt Cheese: To achieve that gooey, irresistible finish, place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1–2 minutes. Watch closely until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve: Enjoy your homemade Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak hot! For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a side of au jus for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own and explore the delightful possibilities waiting in your kitchen!
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Cheese Alternatives: Swap provolone for mozzarella or American cheese for a creamier taste. Each cheese adds a unique meltiness to your sandwich.
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Low-Carb Twist: Serve the filling in lettuce wraps instead of hoagie rolls for a healthier, low-carb option. Crisp lettuce adds refreshing crunch and makes every bite lighter!
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Extra Flavor Boost: Stir in Italian herbs, such as oregano and basil, or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile.
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Vegetable Medley: Incorporate mushrooms or zucchini for an additional layer of flavor and texture, making the filling even more irresistible.
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Slow Cooker Salsa Style: Mix in a cup of salsa during the final hour of cooking for a zesty twist on the classic recipe. This adds brightness and a bit of fun to your cheesesteak!
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Different Meats: Use shredded chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter alternative that still satisfies those cheesesteak cravings. The seasoning will still shine through!
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Gravy Option: Consider serving it with a side of gravy instead of au jus for dipping. This transformation offers a comforting twist reminiscent of a hot roast beef sandwich.
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Serving Style: Present the cheesesteak served on plates alongside a simple side salad or with crispy fries, turning this dish into a gorgeous yet hearty meal!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak
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Choose Quality Beef: Select a well-marbled beef chuck roast for tenderness; overcooked or lean cuts can result in chewy, dry meat.
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Layer Smartly: Layer your ingredients evenly in the crockpot to ensure even cooking. The beef should be on the bottom to absorb all the delicious flavors.
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Avoid Sogginess: Toast hoagie rolls slightly before assembling for a perfect crunch and drain excess liquid from the filling to prevent sogginess.
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Cooking Time Matters: Adjust cooking time based on the size of your beef chunks; larger pieces may need extra time to reach that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment by adding spices like Italian herbs or crushed red pepper flakes for a personal twist on the classic Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Philly Cheesesteaks are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can layer the sliced beef, onions, and bell peppers in the crockpot insert up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. This method not only saves you valuable time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious meal, just add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings, cover, and let it cook on low for 6–8 hours. To maintain quality, be sure to store the assembled ingredients properly; simply reheat any leftovers thoroughly before serving for that fresh, mouthwatering experience!
What to Serve with Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak?
Looking to round out the meal with delightful sides that enhance your homemade cheesesteak experience?
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Crispy French Fries: The golden crunch pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy beef, making for a classic combo that everyone loves.
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Homemade Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side provides a refreshing contrast to the warm cheesesteak, balancing flavors beautifully.
For a fun twist, whip up a batch of coleslaw with a tangy dressing to brighten the dish. It adds delightful texture and can be a crowd-pleaser!
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Potato Chips: A simple yet satisfying option, these add a delightful crunch and salty kick that complements the richness of the cheesesteak.
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Garlic Bread: Toasted with buttery garlic, this side is perfect for sopping up any drippings from the cheesesteak—pure comfort food bliss.
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Garden Salad: Light and fresh, a salad with vine-ripened tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the sandwich’s heartiness.
Serve it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of feta for an extra gourmet touch.
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Beer or Soda: Pair this meal with a cold beverage to elevate the experience; a light lager or root beer works wonderfully with the savory flavors.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies—the perfect treat to satisfy your dessert cravings after savoring the cheesesteak.
With these delicious pairings, your Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak dinner will not only be a feast for the stomach but also for the soul!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the casserole cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef filling in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the filling in a saucepan over low heat until heated through or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently. Serve in toasted hoagie rolls for a delightful meal.
Tip: The flavors of the Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak often improve after sitting, making it a fantastic option for meal prep!
Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Recipe FAQs
What is the best cut of beef to use for Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak?
I recommend using a well-marbled beef chuck roast for the best tenderness and flavor. The marbling helps the meat stay juicy throughout the long cooking process, allowing it to shred easily and soak up all the savory seasonings.
How should I store leftovers from my Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak filling?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the beef filling in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through.
How can I prevent the hoagie rolls from becoming soggy?
To avoid soggy rolls, I often toast the hoagie rolls slightly before assembly. This creates a barrier that helps retain their texture. Additionally, be sure to drain any excess liquid from the beef mixture before loading up your rolls.
Is there a way to adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! If you’re avoiding gluten, consider serving the seasoned beef and veggies in lettuce wraps instead of hoagie rolls. For dairy-free options, you can use a plant-based cheese or simply skip the cheese altogether without sacrificing flavor. Always check ingredient labels to avoid any allergens.
How do I know when the beef is tender enough to shred?
The beef should cook on low for about 6–8 hours until it’s fork-tender. You’ll know it’s ready when you can easily shred it apart with two forks, which indicates that all those delicious flavors have melded perfectly!
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Layer Ingredients: Start by placing the sliced beef, onion, and both green and red bell peppers into the crockpot.
- Add Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat for 6–8 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Split the hoagie rolls and layer the beef mixture and sautéed peppers, topping with provolone cheese.
- Melt Cheese: Place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with a side of au jus for dipping.